How to Read “郷に入っては郷に従え”
Gou ni itte wa gou ni shitagae
Meaning of “郷に入っては郷に従え”
“When entering village follow village” means that when you enter a new environment or group, you should act in accordance with the customs and rules of that place.
This proverb teaches the importance of prioritizing harmony in that place, even if it means temporarily setting aside your own values and customs. It is often used when the environment changes, such as a new workplace, transferring schools, or moving to a new place. However, this doesn’t simply mean “endure it.” It’s the wisdom of mutual understanding – by understanding and respecting the culture of that land or group, you yourself become more easily accepted in that environment. Even today, this way of thinking is very effective when participating in international settings or new communities. The attitude of trying to understand the other party’s culture and customs becomes the first step in building good human relationships.
Origin and Etymology
The origin of “When entering village follow village” traces back to ancient Chinese classics. The most credible theory suggests that the original form comes from the words “When entering a village, ask about the village; when entering a country, ask about the country” recorded in the “Book of Rites,” an ancient Chinese book on ritual practices.
This saying is believed to have been introduced to Japan during the era when Chinese literature was imported along with Buddhist and Confucian teachings. Similar expressions can already be found in Japanese literature from the Heian period, and expressions close to the current form became established from the Kamakura period onward.
The character “郷” originally meant village or hometown, but here it is used in the broader sense of “that land” or “that place.” In ancient China, different regions had different customs and laws, so when travelers or merchants visited other lands, respecting the customs of that land was important wisdom that also connected to their personal safety.
This proverb has continued to be beloved for so long because it expresses the basic principle of harmony in human society. It has been passed down as universal wisdom for people with different cultures and customs to coexist.
Interesting Facts
The Chinese character “郷” originally combined “向” (direction) and “邑” (village), meaning “a village where people live facing each other.” In other words, the “郷” in this proverb contains not just the meaning of a geographical place, but the deeper meaning of “a community where people are connected to each other.”
Travelers in the Edo period actually practiced this proverb. Since each domain had its own laws and customs, if they didn’t follow local etiquette during their travels, they could sometimes face punishment.
Usage Examples
- Since I’m being assigned to an overseas branch, I’m learning about the local culture with the spirit of “When entering village follow village.”
- I heard there’s morning radio exercises in the new department, but “When entering village follow village,” right?
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, the meaning of “When entering village follow village” has become more complex. With advancing globalization, it has become normal for people with different cultural backgrounds to live and work in the same workplace or region.
On the other hand, in modern times that emphasize individual values and diversity, more people interpret this proverb as meaning “you should conform to those around you even at the sacrifice of being yourself.” This is an interpretation that differs from the original meaning. With the spread of social media, the culture of “reading the atmosphere” has been emphasized more, and sometimes it’s used to justify peer pressure.
However, in a truly global society, the essential value of this proverb becomes more important. Now that remote work has become widespread and opportunities to collaborate online with people around the world have increased, the ability to understand and respect others’ cultures and customs is an essential skill.
As a modern interpretation, it would be appropriate to understand it as “the wisdom to understand the culture of a place and adapt to build constructive relationships.” Finding ways to show respect for others without losing one’s own identity is the modern version of “When entering village follow village.”
When AI Hears This
“When in Rome, do as the Romans do” was actually an advanced cultural espionage manual.
On the surface, it appears to be a straightforward teaching that says “adapt to your surroundings.” However, this saying presupposes the existence of “people who know multiple communities.” In other words, border-crossers who move between different cultural spheres are the true target of this wisdom.
According to research by psychologist Hong Ying-yi, people with multiple cultural identities develop an ability called “cultural frame switching.” For example, when a Japanese-American raised in America works at a Japanese company, they consciously switch to “Japan mode.” This isn’t mere endurance, but strategic behavior that presents the optimal version of oneself according to the situation.
What’s fascinating is that this switching ability enhances creativity. People with cross-cultural experience can combine multiple cultural solutions for a single problem. While appearing to “conform,” they’re actually using different weapons strategically.
The “cultural intelligence” that modern global companies seek is precisely this ability. An old Japanese proverb had actually anticipated cutting-edge international talent theory. Not compliant adapters, but strategists who manipulate culture at will. That was the true identity of those who “follow local customs.”
Lessons for Today
“When entering village follow village” teaches modern people that true strength lies in flexibility. Rather than clinging to our own thoughts and habits, by maintaining an attitude of learning from new environments, we can become richer human beings.
In modern society, job changes, relocations, and international exchanges have become commonplace. It’s precisely because of such times that the wisdom of this proverb shines. When jumping into new environments, you might feel confused at first. But by making an effort to understand the culture and people of that place, unexpected discoveries and growth await you.
What’s important is that “following” and “losing yourself” are different things. Respecting others and adapting to the situation doesn’t mean abandoning your values. Rather, by incorporating new perspectives, you can come to understand yourself more deeply.
Let’s not fear change and have a heart that enjoys new “villages.” There, wonderful encounters and learning surely await.
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